A Community That Calls Itself a Stakeholder in Oyo’s Future
The Igbo community in Oyo State has praised Governor Seyi Makinde for what it describes as an inclusive approach to governance, presenting itself as an integral stakeholder in the state’s future and calling for deeper political participation, unity and sustained engagement with the government ahead of future elections.
The position was set out by Tallest Innocent, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Relations (Igbo Community) and Chairman of the State Igbo Peace Committee, during the 2026 Igbo Day and New Yam Festival (Iri Ji) celebration held in Ibadan on Wednesday.
Culture, Identity and Economic Contribution
Addressing community leaders, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, government officials and members of the Allied Peoples Movement, Innocent said the annual celebration was more than a cultural festival. In his view, it reflects the identity, resilience and enterprise of the Igbo people, as well as their contribution to Oyo’s development.
He noted that the Igbo community has continued to play a significant role in commerce, transportation, education, agriculture, hospitality, real estate and other sectors of the state’s economy. Igbos, he stressed, are not merely residents but active stakeholders in Oyo’s growth and prosperity.
“We are Igbo by heritage, Nigerians by nationality and proud stakeholders in the development of Oyo,” he declared.
Appreciation for an Inclusive Government
Innocent expressed gratitude to the governor for creating avenues for the Igbo community to participate in governance, particularly through the establishment of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Community Relations (Igbo Community).
He said the appointment demonstrates the administration’s commitment to inclusion and sends a strong message that belonging, participation and contribution should never be determined by ethnic background or place of origin.
While acknowledging the administration’s efforts in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and economic development, he urged the government to sustain and deepen its engagement with the Igbo community. He called for increased representation, greater access to empowerment programmes, stronger collaboration with investors and continued support for peaceful community relations.
A Growing Political Voice Across All 33 Local Government Areas
The aide also highlighted the growing political significance of the Igbo community in Oyo State, noting that its members are spread across all 33 local government areas and remain deeply invested in the stability and prosperity of the state.
Ahead of future elections, he urged community members to remain peaceful, politically informed and actively involved in democratic processes, insisting that political participation must be guided by issues, performance, inclusiveness and developmental priorities.
Unity as the Community’s Greatest Strength
Speaking on his role as Chairman of the State Igbo Peace Committee, Innocent emphasised the need for unity among Ndi-Igbo, warning that internal disputes and divisions could weaken the community’s collective voice and influence.
“Our greatest strength is not merely our population, businesses or political connections. Our greatest strength is our unity,” he said.
He commended elders, traditional rulers and stakeholders who had contributed to ongoing reconciliation efforts, and urged community members to place collective interests above personal ambitions.
Innocent also appreciated the Yoruba people and other ethnic groups in Oyo for fostering an atmosphere of peace, cooperation and mutual respect, stressing that cultural diversity should strengthen rather than divide society.
Addressing young people and women, he called for greater involvement in leadership, community development, education, entrepreneurship and responsible political participation, noting that no community can achieve sustainable progress without their active contributions.
A Festival Rooted in Heritage
The celebration featured cultural displays and activities marking the New Yam Festival, one of the most important events in the Igbo cultural calendar. It ended with a renewed commitment by the Igbo community to peaceful coexistence, inclusive governance and collaboration with all stakeholders in the pursuit of a more prosperous Oyo.
In a symbolic closing message, participants echoed the popular Igbo proverb, “Igwe bụ ike” (Unity is strength), reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity and shared progress.
